I'm saying you should give it a shot before having border line temper tantrums about the very idea. Not saying that to you specifically, but some posters that won't be named.
All I'm saying is I understand where the NHL is coming from. Does is seem "silly"? Absolutely, it's definitely not traditional that's for sure.
The NHL is barely a top 5 sport in the US. So again I ask, when Canada wins out in its group with a goal differential of +35. Who's going to watch that?
This format has most definitely gotten people "riled up", talking and created a buzz. Let's see if it delivers any entertainment, traditional or not. But in the end, that's all that it is, entertainment.
Hey, I'm not even sure I agree with it, but I'm excited to watch it.
Those of us that have been around for Canada/Russia series, Canada Cups etc have seen a level of international hockey that quite frankly none of the younger people have often seen. The closest it comes in recent decades is the few top games of an Olympic tournament the rare times NHL players do compete. (Which historically has been quite an anomaly which is going to end again)
So instead of great international tournaments you get dreck like this instead with contrived gimmicks as if a global international hockey tournament with member nations playing for their country and honor isn't a glorious thing.
Really I'm a devout hockey fan but the most glorious sporting event on the planet and witnessd by the most people is the Soccer world cup which is great because it rekindles national passions, prides, and with each tournament being unforgettable, legendary, and unlike any other sporting event that happens on the globe. Instead going with National side strengths the NHL, in its wisdom, feels its better to go a different way. I don't know that many agree.
I've seen enough great hockey tournaments that have been legendary and will likely be unmatched, no biggy, but I honestly feel sorry for younger people that get foisted this market leveraged dreck and that this becomes your memories.